How hard is it to be a semi owner operator?

Answer by  Roland27 (16334)

You need your CDL license from the DMV. It's a special license that allows you to drive a Semi. It can be a hard profession. Trucks are expensive and even more expensive to repair and maintain. You always have to figure in that the price of diesel fuel fluctuates.

Answer by  TennG78 (254)

Anyone looking to be a semi owner/operator will need to put in a lot of work and get trained. Traing and certification is the first step.

Answer by  John (9008)

It is difficult, but potentially rewarding. First of all, you obviously need to get a commercial driver's license. Next, you have to buy a truck (they are extremely expensive). You will also need a lot of operating cash. Fuel is very costly, and semis break very regularly; repairs to them are quite expensive.

Answer by  Jonetra (66)

It depends. There are companies that will hold your hand and help you with all the necessary paperwork and day-to-day operations. If you go at it alone then it can get difficult. You have to get your own loads, pay for maintenance, etc.

Answer by  okcmouseketeer (779)

This is a very hard economy to get started. There are a few companies that are still hiring O/O, but most just want OTR drivers for their own trucks.

Answer by  answerqueen (564)

You can take a 6 week course and be driving that soon, or find someone with a CDL and they can train you as well.